The hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains undecided as the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board meeting failed to reach a resolution.
The meeting, initially scheduled for today, may now be postponed by a day or two, according to sources.
The virtual meeting held yesterday was abruptly adjourned after only half an hour, with no conclusive decisions. Although it was earlier expected that the ICC Board would reconvene today, the official statement issued by the ICC refrained from confirming a specific date, stating only that discussions would resume in the coming days.
During the brief session, board members presented one-liner suggestions regarding the tournament’s hosting arrangements. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reiterated its stance on the hybrid model and refused to show flexibility on the matter.
The ICC acknowledged the challenges in its statement, saying, "All parties are continuing to work towards a positive solution for the Champions Trophy 2025. It is hoped that the board will meet again in the next few days to finalize the matter."
The tournament is set to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025, but a final schedule and venue plan remain in limbo. India has already refused to travel to Pakistan, sparking debates over possible alternatives.
Three Possible Options Under Discussion
Media reports suggest three potential solutions are being considered:
Pakistan hosts the tournament, but India’s matches are played at a neutral venue.
The entire tournament is moved to a neutral venue, with Pakistan retaining hosting rights.
Pakistan hosts all matches, and India opts not to participate.
The ICC is reportedly working on a reasonable compromise, but with time running out and no confirmed decision, the uncertainty surrounding the tournament continues to grow.
The Champions Trophy is a marquee event for Pakistan cricket, and any decision regarding its hosting will have significant implications for the sport in the region.
